PARKS NEWS

Apply Now for Montana State Parks' AmeriCorps Program - Recruiting Now for Spring/Summer Positions

(Helena, MT) – Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) announced today that the Montana State Parks AmeriCorps’ program is now recruiting members for 2014 Spring/Summer positions.

AmeriCorps (http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps) is a national service program where members earn money for college or to pay off student loans, gain job skills and give back to local communities.

Montana State Parks’ AmeriCorps members help strengthen volunteer and interpretive programs, enhance the condition and quality of park lands, and create public awareness and outreach with local communities. In 2013, Montana State Parks’ AmeriCorps program, which included 18 members, contributed more than 19,500 service hours.

“Our members have an opportunity to spend time in the outdoors helping kids and families learn, connect, and explore nature, Montana’s heritage/culture and recreation in our great state parks,” said Katie McKeown, Montana State Parks’ AmeriCorps Program Specialist.

There are 5 spring/summer positions currently available with members serving terms of either 18 or 23 weeks. 23-week (March – August) positions are available at:
• Travelers’ Rest State Park in Lolo near Missoula (900 hours) – National Historic Landmark
• Giant Springs State Park in Great Falls (900 hours)

Montana State Parks’ AmeriCorps members can earn an Education Award of either $2,775 (23 week) or $2,114 dollars (18 week) to be used towards a college education or to pay off student loans. Members who are 55 years or older can transfer the Education Award to a child, grandchild or foster child. All Montana State Parks’ AmeriCorps members will also receive a modest living allowance to help cover incidental costs, such as commuting.

Montana residents and out-of-state applicants are encouraged to apply. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as positions are open until filled.

Members can range in age from young adults to retirement, but all members must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Some college experience is preferred.

Montana State Parks’ AmeriCorps is funded in partnership with the Corporation for National and Community Service, an independent federal agency, and administered in Montana through the Governor's Office of Community Service.

Celebrate Montana State Parks 75th Anniversary in 2014! Visit Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) and enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, boating and more and discover some of the greatest natural and cultural treasures on earth.